In a world where a blog is created every second does the world really need another blog? Well, it's got one.
An irregular set of postings, weaving an intricate pattern around a diverse set of subjects. Comment on culture, technology, politics and the occasional rant about life.
Alan ... in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Thursday, May 11, 2006

Top of the Pops - less crowded than usual

The crowd at tonight’s recording of Top of the Pops may look a little thinner than usual when the show is aired.

Why? Well, it’s all down to the interpretation of the 2003 Licensing Act which only came into force last year.

Turns out that the BBC may need a licence for some forms of public entertainment after all. A studio full of people watching a live band counts as public entertainment. And until Hammersmith and Fulham council can issue a licence, the BBC can’t hold music performances in front of the general public in their London Television Centre base.

But to avoid disruption to filming (like having to move to a different studio that is licensed), BBC staff are being encouraged to attend - since they’re not ordinary members of the public - getting around the current licensing difficulties.